OBT Forum
General BattleTech => Alternate Universe => Salient Horizon => Topic started by: Takiro on February 19, 2019, 09:44:49 PM
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The opening salvo of the Marik Civil War began November 19, 3052 mere weeks after the assassination of Captain-General Thomas Marik. His dramatic death in a car bombing near Parliament on Atreus wracked the entire Free Worlds League even more than accusations which preceded it. Allegations of the Marik being a fake are spread far and wide by a ComStar splinter group named the Wrath of Blake. Damning evidence supplied these dissidents in the wake of arrest of their leader Precentor Demona Aziz is fanned incessantly by opposition forces within the government. With Regulas and other traditional domestic rivals calling for investigations and possible removal the stage was set for conflict.
No one bargained on the violent act which engulfed not only the House Lord in question but his former ComStar prisoner as well. Instead of answers there were just questions like who would exactly ascend the throne? Many were understandably concerned that Thomas heirs were under the sway of foreign powers. Paul Marik while refusing to accept the highest office in the land assumed the provisional post of Minister-General to shepherd a chaotic transition. No doubt many hoped he would endorse the candidacy of his daughter Force Commander Corrine Marik.
Instead he urged calm and implored everyone to wait till his League Security Services concluded their investigations. In order to placate regional defense concerns Paul also authorized the Provincial Recall Order which transferred FWLM units to their home worlds. Given enough time these directives might have reduced League wide angst and eased tensions but it was not to be. Not only did some regional commands up and leave their post without proper relief other more diabolical forces were lurking.
Chancellor Sun Tzu Liao was engaged to Isis Marik and stood to gain immensely from her ascension to the Atrean throne. With her primary rival for power being stationed just across the border from his Capellan Confederation it was opportunity to seize the day. Masterfully redeploying his largest and best mercenary command, the legendary McCarron’s Armored Cavalry, to the area he transferred their contract to his would-be bride. There, they would strike at Sadurni garrisoned by the 2nd Free Worlds Legionnaires whose membership included Corrine Marik .
Canon Incorporation
If you’d like to play this out as a war game exercise conceived of by the FWLM in the early 3050s then that would be fine as well.
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This is our next BattleTech event of which I hope you will all participate in and help develop. Please comment as you see fit!
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A while backed I started a thread for those seeking a wee bit more background into the Civil War as I envisioned it, link below. Much of this story is still in development and you can certainly play a role in its direction.
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3390.0
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Wow- this'll get ugly early! Nice storyline.
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I won't ask where Sadurni is and why is everybody heading there.
What are the forces of the different actors of this nice little play?
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What are the forces of the different actors of this nice little play?
Sorry I don't have time to go more into detail but here are the units scheduled to participate in this clash. I am working on Big MACs secret move now.
Units Involved
Aggressors
McCarron’s Armored Cavalry (5 regiments)
Marik Life Guard (Isis’ Death Commandos – Company)
1st Marik Stalwarts (assembling regiment following the battle)
Defenders
2nd Free Worlds Legionaries (‘Mech regiment and supporting units)
Sadurni Planetary Militia (mixed regiment)
Sadurni Liberation Unit (irregular special forces group)
Old Guard (the last Phoenix Hawk LAMs from Marik Guard – Lance)
Kristen’s Krushers (mercenary regiment, arriving late)
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Sorry this took so long folks, snow storm and real life stuff hampering my writing schedule. Tell me what you think, more on the way!
Shell Game
The covert redeployment of McCarron’s Armored Cavalry to the Free Worlds League border took place over the course of six to eight weeks. Codenamed Operation Celestial Mandate it was authorized by the Chancellor in September as events played out in Marik space. Swiftly relocating all five ‘Mech regiments and their replacements was a complex balancing act which taxed the limited assets of the Capellan Confederation. Hiring new mercenaries to help fill gaps created in the move was also out of the question as such actions could draw unwanted attention.
Thankfully years of being in a state of near readiness and the Confederation’s smaller territorial size both aided in the redeployment. Jumpships had been carefully stationed at key points in Capellan space to rapidly respond to hostile incursions making these maneuvers possible. State media covered Big MAC’s forthcoming movements as a reward for a job well done. Their rotation home to Menke and its surrounding worlds for rest and recuperation was richly deserved and overdue thanks to House Liao’s enemies.
Transferring Warrior House Lushann to the St. Ives border from the Menke area was a natural extension of this exchange. Home Guard and local McCarron assets would cover their departure acting like line assets of the Armored Cavalry arriving home. What had to remain a carefully guarded secret was the actual transfer of Little Richard's Panzer Brigade and the Tooth of Ymir from the Sadurni region to the Compact’s border. This was only surpassed by the sheer enormity of the entire Armored Cavalry’s departure which proved to be the real trick.
Disguising the scope of the operation was accomplished with typical Liao smoothness which was vital to the defense of the nation. If enemy raiders or hostile powers discovered what was happening during this time it could have resulted in disaster. Even after the redeployment risks remained as areas around Menke, the Periphery, and Marik borders were weakened in order to have Big MAC ready to strike at Sadurni on a moment’s notice. This also fails to account for the St. Ives border which saw a downgrading of garrison forces which could have invited reprisal attacks from the Compact.
Luckily no such assaults occurred in this window of opportunity and in just over six weeks all was ready. While certain foreign intelligence agencies may have picked up on pieces of the overall transfer scheme, they remained ignorant of its wide-ranging impact. Credit must be given to the CCAF and all its supporting assets which ran into no unforeseen accidents or breakdowns. Like wise mercenaries and civilians played a role in this deception working together in a synergy not seen in the Confederation in quite some time. All was ready for Sun Tzu’s master stroke.
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Plan C
The FWLM was not wholly unprepared for the eventuality of a decapitation strike against Corinne Marik on Sadurni. As Capellan betrayal were synonyms to most League citizens contingency plans were drawn up by the League Central Coordination and Command (LCCC) before she ever arrived on planet. The Seven Sons of Solon initiated several initiatives to insure her personal safety and security while on station. Referred to simply as Plan C perhaps as a counter to Capellan goals or its goal to protect Corinne it got underway in 3047 as the 2nd Free Worlds Legionnaires were being transfer to planet.
First and foremost, efforts were made to build up the world’s static defenses in order to aid the garrison in the event of a full-scale planetary assault. No major fortifications such as a Star League Castle Brian or Fort Bourgogne on Marlette existed and given their expense were unlikely to be completed. With limited time military engineers drew on existing terrain features and preexisting strategic points to enhance planetary defense. Urban centers and cave complexes became their primary focus receiving additional structural enhancements which hardened them against would be attackers.
While these facilities were kept well supplied for the garrison planners also made sure that rapid reinforcements were on hand should Sadurni be attacked. At the first sign of hostilities word would immediately be sent via two modes of communication. Coded HPG messages from SAFE and FWLM assets would propagate the fastest through the chain of command but even before Operation Scorpion there were concerns about ComStar’s reliable in a crisis situation. To that end Jumpship couriers were pre-positioned in system to relay emergency calls for assistance ensuring their timely arrival.
Finally, should it become necessary that evacuation of Corinne Marik was prioritized above all both interstellar and interplanetary transports were made available to her augmented personal security forces. Hidden on Sadurni were a number of Small Craft and even a special Dropship which were kept at the ready should their immediate use be required. Likewise, two Jumpships remained on station to speed her safely away in the event of disaster. One remained in system fully charged and ready for departure as the other was placed in a secret location within one jump of the planet as a backup.
These precautions would prevent anyone from holding Corinne hostage or interfering with rightful succession of the Captain-Generalcy. The Outreach Accords and the recent alliance with the Capellan Confederation accelerated the completion of all defensive works as well as adding one more unit to system. As peace now reigned with neighboring realms a Liberation Unit was secretly redeployed and inserted on planet under the guise of emergency construction crews tasked with finalizing these battlements. Codenamed the Poison Pills these irregular special forces will wreak havoc in the rear area of any large attack force.
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New Alliance, Same Antipathy
New Chancellor Sun Tzu Liao moved quickly following the assassination of his parents on May 8, 3052. News of his request and attainment of marriage to Isis Marik was being reported as early as June 17, 3052. In just forty days this new twenty-year-old House Lord had taken his rump Successor State from a state of disarray to an emerging power giving birth to a potential second superstate in the InnerSphere. This new alliance opened the Confederation to commerce for the first time in two decades and gave them access to lostech weaponry and equipment which it sorely needed.
While the move was highly calculated and stood to benefit both nations much animosity remained from more than six centuries of conflict between these neighboring realms. Public condemnation from citizens on either side of the border has been fierce and nonstop. Of course, the very nature of Capellan civic dialogue and the view that Sun Tzu may come to dominate this relationship one day has muted any criticism of the Celestial Throne. Not so in the Free Worlds League which was no stranger to frequent internal disagreements with many of those turning violent over that nation’s long history.
Anti-Liao sentiment particularly along the Capellan border was vociferous both in government and private circles. Figures on Oriente and Andurien were quick to condemn the pact citing security concerns while traditional Marik opposition on worlds like Regulas was also fierce. Many wanted to see the details of this new agreement which with the exception of the inter-dynastic marriage were surprising thin. Marik functionaries spoke about ongoing negotiations and urged public calm while an evolving diplomatic framework was discussed by leaders of both realms.
Advocates point out that Isis is after all second in line for the throne and could still be bypassed if circumstances dictated. They countered ‘fearmongering’ by some within the League through a cold look at the high upside in investing in the new partnership. Not only will this new coalition balance the power of the Federated Commonwealth it will open new markets to League merchants which could reach as far as the Taurian Concordat in relative safety with access to Liao recharging stations. Whether these political and economic incentives will convince dissenters is an unknown at this time.
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The Atrean Captivity
Precentor Demona Aziz of Atreus left Terra for the Free Worlds League on June 16, 3052 in an effort to find sanctuary for orthodox ComStar dissidents. While Precentor Martial Anastasius Focht and new Primus Sharilar Mori assented to this departure it was in the hope for peace. Any chance for reconciliation between the reforming ComStar and these renegades was lost with the Mars Rebellion. Violent fanatics began this uprising in early July killing innocent civilians as well as ComStar personnel indiscriminately.
Thankfully a relief force under the command of the Precentor Martial was in position to assist loyal troops in restoring order. An ensuing battle between his ad hoc battalion of bodyguards, ComGuard cadets, mercenaries, and Clan bondsmen resulted in the defeat of a shadowy battalion of zealots. It was only at the conclusion of that conflict which a nuclear device was discovered that if activated could have killed Focht as well as the rest of the combatants. The heroic efforts of Precentor William York claimed the mastermind of this scheme and ultimately saved the day.
Unfortunately, this was not the only terrorist incident perpetrated by these extremists who wantonly killed all who stood in their way. The destruction of the La Grave HPG by its former Precentor was another prime example of this madness. Alexander Kernoff had been appalled not only by the Reformation of the Order but his staff's positive reaction. Sabotaging the HPG and detonating a small but powerful bomb Kernoff murdered his own personnel as well completely destroying the high-tech communications facility he was responsible for.
With little other recourse available to ComStar the Primus and First Circuit ordered a Censure of all radical elements in the Brotherhood. Aziz, Kernoff, and a few other notorious figures were to be immediately detained when found for questioning in these matters. Captain-General Thomas Marik dutifully complied with these wishes on July 14, 3052 seizing Aziz and her followers as they asked for sanctuary. While a few escaped the Precentor and her staff are being held for crimes against the Free Worlds League before they are extradited to Terra.
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The Wrath of Blake
Born out of the Great Betrayal these renegade militants formerly of ComStar are out for vengeance. Vowing to cleanse the Order and the entire Free Worlds League in blood for the martyrdom of Primus Myndo Waterly, the death of the ‘real’ Thomas Marik, and the captivity of Precentor Demona Aziz. These murderous reactionaries had already committed acts of incitement, sabotage, and mass murder against those they considered heretical. Their venom is particularly harshest for Anastasius Focht, Sharilar Mori, and the ‘false’ Thomas Marik whom they consider responsible for this unholy Reformation.
Members of this radical sect who idolize Primus Conrad Toyama have actively taken up arms against ComStar and the Captain-General. Heinous acts of assassination, bombings, and kidnappings have all been attributed to their members. Many of these fanatics are former ROM operatives who are well-trained and since the imprisonment of their leader singularly motivated. While still fragmented their known leadership currently includes Cameron St. Jamias (the Avenger of Aziz) and Precentor Alexander Kernoff (the Purifier of La Grave). Other clandestine figures presumably located somewhere within the Free Worlds League have also been noted but thus far remain unidentified.
While other moderate Blakist factions like the True Believers and the Counter-Reformists elected to leave ComStar they have refused to embrace violence as a solution. While they may sympathize with them these expatriates who are currently assembling on Gibson have thus far limited their efforts to spreading ‘messages of truth.’ The isolationist Shunners whose exact whereabouts continue to elude authorities may even be a lesser concern as that group apparently just wants to be left alone. Insisting that the doom foreseen by Jerome Blake is upon the InnerSphere it is likely that they will remain a non-factor in the wars to come. It is interesting to note that none of these factions have thus far been targeted for Censure by ComStar perhaps as a gesture of reconciliation.
What is known is that the immediate release of Precentor Demona Aziz from imprisonment on Atreus is the top priority of these terrorists. Daily broadcasts from the Avenger of Aziz boast of acts throughout the League and warn the Captain-General against further delays. Escalating threats against Thomas Marik elude to some great deception which apparently the Blakist think will unseat him but their rhetoric is confusing and their attacks have thus far been sporadic. While disorganized it appears that their organization is growing perhaps by way of the HPG network which may still have some unknown ‘back door’ access for these zealots to communicate.
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So I will take a break from event writing for a bit to discuss scenario creation. Bradshaw and myself discussed that in detail this weekend and I wanted to give you all the broad strokes thus far. I have envisioned ten separate actions to this battle from beginning to end. Please discuss!!
Scenarios
1. Life Guard – Death Commandos pledged to Isis Marik seize or destroy Jumpships
2. Aerospace Clash – With the jump points taken outnumbered Marik aces take on MAC
3. Initial Skirmish – Lead elements of MAC clash with Marik defenders
4. Entering the Capital – leading to the city MAC must overcome the outer defense ring
5. Mortorell – Devil’s Bridge – MAC must seize a vital crossing to make it into the central city
6. Taking the Capital – Marik forces hold onto the planetary capital overmatched by MAC
7. Cave Search – MAC units engage in search and destroy missions
8. Forest Recon – The Firebirds (Old remanants of Marik Guard) rides again on a vital mission to save Corrine
9. Fog Battle – Double Blind where players don’t know friend from foe
10. Nova Estrella (New Star) – Battle for the Spaceport between the remaining defenders, the in bound Krushers, and MAC
Units Involved
Aggressors
McCarron’s Armored Cavalry (5 regiments)
Marik Life Guard (Isis’ Death Commandos – Company)
1st Marik Stalwarts (assembling regiment following the battle)
Defenders
2nd Free Worlds Legionaries (‘Mech regiment and supporting units)
Kristen’s Krushers (mercenary regiment)
Sadurni Planetary Militia (mixed regiment)
Firebirds (the last Phoenix Hawk LAMs from Marik Guard – Lance)
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Is the commander of the Firebirds named Jake Preston?
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Is the commander of the Firebirds named Jake Preston?
Haha forgot about this movie
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Is the commander of the Firebirds named Jake Preston?
Wow, I didn't remember that movie at all! That being said we could do that as an homage.
The Old Guard was the original place holder name for the last remaining lance of LAMs which once served in numbers with the Marik Guard. Thinking they were somewhat of a special forces / special demonstration team I thought the Firebird moniker fit this Marik unit well. However, I am opened to other suggestions.
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Moving onto the scenarios themselves 1 and 2 we are going to skip this weekend as a group for the first planet side conflict which is 3. Please tell us what you think? Is it balanced or unbalanced?
Scenario 3: First Blood
A BattleMech company of McCarron's Armored Cavalry is knocked off course during their initial drop onto Sadurni. While relatively undamaged this force has to journey across enemy territory in order to join up with the main assault force closing in on the capital. Unfortunately for them they are about to run into a hidden redoubt built by Marik engineers which is currently garrisoned by a mixed battalion of the Planetary Militia.
The fairly swampy terrain can best be described as boggy or hilly ground which is in a fairly wet climate. Eastmouth Redoubt was named for the rough geographic terrain (Eastmouth Basin) upon which it was set. Located to the east of the planetary capital this was a desolate region uninhabited by the denizens of the planet. Intended as a hideout for resistance forces should the planet be attacked it became the staging area for Strikeforce Simpson. MAC forces have to traverse this narrow marsh between the deeper bogs to the side flanked by impassable rock cliffs.
The two mixed companies that compose Strikeforce Simpson are aware of the general approach of invading Liao forces and deploy before they enter map in hidden locations around the Redoubt. Their BattleMechs and Armor are powered down to avoid detection while the dismounted infantry may move in concealed fashion as they wish.
Strikeforce Simpson [Sadurni Planetary Militia] (Regular/ 3025)
Heavy BattleMech Lance
Captain Harris Simpson, Regular, MAD-3M Marauder
Mechwarrior Lina Cruz, Green, ON1-K Orion
Mechwarrior Michal Vanek, Regular, ARC-2R Archer
Mechwarrior Stephon Wang, Veteran, WHM-6R Warhammer
Heavy Armor Lance
Lieutenant SG Robert Zhang, Regular, Behemoth Heavy Tank (Armor variant)
Corporal Nelson Jai, Regular, Ontos Heavy Tank (LRM variant)
Corporal Devin Ye, Veteran, Scherk PPC Carrier
Corporal Brian Meng, Green, Scherk PPC Carrier
Medium Armor Lance
Lieutenant JG Kevan Zhu, Regular, Manticore Heavy Tank
Corporal Edwin Xing, Veteran, Manticore Heavy Tank
Corporal Ann Duan, Regular, SRM Carrier
Corporal Shui Rodriquez, Green, SRM Carrier
Company of Infantry (Mechanized Rifle)
Lieutenant JG Simon Chen, Regular, Machine Gun
Sergeant Virginia Tao, Regular, SRM
Sergeant Alfons Bertran, Regular, Rifle
Sergeant Emmanuel Vong, Regular, Rifle
Special Supporting Element: Long Tom Artillery Piece (Fixed in the Redoubt)
Victory Conditions: The Sadurni Planetary Militia is out for blood looking to inflict the most damage as possible and a win for them will depend on how much of the MAC company they can destroy.
Stark’s Company [5th Regiment of McCarron’s Armored Cavalry] (Veteran/ 3050)
Command Lance
Captain Austin Stark, Veteran, QKD-5K Quickdraw (60 tons – 5/8/5)
Mechwarrior Daniel Mann, Green, DV-7D Dervish (55 tons – 5/8/5)
Mechwarrior Todd Ramone, Elite, CLNT-2-3U Clint (40 tons – 6/9/6) [mod arm weapn]
Mechwarrior Jacob Adams, Regular, PXH-3K Phoenix Hawk (45 tons – 6/9/6)
Support Lance
Lieutenant Jason Mills, Veteran, TBT-7M Trebuchet (50 tons – 5/8)
Mechwarrior Sofia Lyght, Regular, CRB-27b Crab (50 tons – 5/8)
Mechwarrior Iris Locke, Elite, VND-3L Vindicator (45 tons – 4/6/4)
Mechwarrior Daniel Shannon, Veteran, BJ-3 Blackjack (45 tons – 4/6/4)
Scout Lance
Lieutenant Jiang Crane, Elite, RVN-3L Raven (35 tons – 6/9)
Mechwarrior Sofia Rey, Elite, JR7-K Jenner (35 tons – 7/11/5) [long neck mini]
Mechwarrior Gloria Lang, Regular, JR7-K Jenner (35 tons – 7/11/5) [short neck mini]
Mechwarrior Yaroslav Runovich, Regular, JVN-10P Javelin (30 tons – 6/9/6)
Special Supporting Element: Fighter support and Artillery support (see Raven)
Victory Conditions: McCarron's Armored Cavalry is just trying to link up with its forces which except for some aerospace support are too far away to help in the battle. They just have to get from one end of the board to the other and escape with as many intact units as possible.
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I find MacCarron's Armored Cavalry a bit on the light side but who knows?
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It is one of their lightest units without a doubt my friend but there motivation is linking up with other friendly units not destroying there opposition here. Plus they have a significant technological edge (3050 - Level 2 equipment) over their opponents (3025 - Level 1 equipment) here.
We are hours away from kicking off the festivities here, I'll let you all know what goes down.
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Plus they have a significant technological edge (3050 - Level 2 equipment) over their opponents (3025 - Level 1 equipment) here.
I would never go head to head against a Sherk with a Light 'Mech, even if the Light 'Mech is packing advanced technology from 3050.
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Well the first half of the battle played itself out today folks and I think everyone had fun. The infantry while having a chance to make a difference didn't and much focus was initially paid the Raven. While it may soon be never more we are in turn 5 (firing phase for Gus who is playing MAC - has gone with first lance) and things are going well for Marik. One SRM Carrier went down early but since everything has gone the Planetary Militias way as the MAC Scout Lance is pretty much done for (both Jenners are down). I am going to update the overview above as things have changed a bit from planning to kickoff which may not have been covered.
Turn Summary
1. MAC moves on board as the militia Mechs and Vehicles remain powered down to avoid detection
2. MAC moving quickly but in line approaches the hill with hidden redoubt
3. Initially discovery as the Raven stumbles upon an SRM Carrier and is fired upon by a few units
4. Most of the Militia powers up and the battle is joined in earnest
5. MAC has gotten about halfway across the board but their losses are mounting as they return fire
Question for you guys - How many MAC Mechs escaping constitutes the following?
MAC Decisive Win
Draw or Pyrrhic Victory
Militia Decisive Win
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MAC Decisive Win => more than 2 lances getting through
Draw or Pyrrhic Victory => in between
Militia Decisive Win => less than 1 lance
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Thanks Ice, pretty much what I figured.
8 or more survive desicive MAC win
6 survive is a draw
4 or less survive desicive Marik win
Should the state of the Militia matter in this calculus as well?
And another thing as I was thinking about the death of the 2nd Infantry Platoon yesterday. Armed with SRMs they missed their chance to take down the Quickdraw yesterday at pointblank range and were obliterated by his return fire. The thing that gets me as a ponder it do the light woods they were in absorb any damage like being in a building per say? Not sure if there were rules ever covering that or not??
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Should the state of the Militia matter in this calculus as well?
I don't think so as they are less precious than the Big MAC.
And for woods, I don't think so unless infantry is entrenched in the woods.
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And for woods, I don't think so unless infantry is entrenched in the woods.
It just stands to reason that woods would absorb some damage the same way a building would. Not saying which would be better but infantry is going to be hiding behind what ever cover is there and it may take some of the damage.
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It just stands to reason that woods would absorb some damage the same way a building would. Not saying which would be better but infantry is going to be hiding behind what ever cover is there and it may take some of the damage.
Hence the To hit modifier.
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True that, just would be nice if a couple of guys get spared cause they were behind trees. Suppose a house rule could address that. Maybe I will bring it up on the main board under a rules question or suggestion.
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Well folks yesterday was day two of the battle and the tide has really turned in favor of MAC. Once the bulk of their force cleared the central wooded hills of Eastmouth Basin they were really able to crank up their movement frustrating the Militias attempts to shot them down. On top of that a lucky critical hit from the Clint blew up a previously undamaged Schrek which was helping hold the middle of the board.
Turn Summary
7. Marik Long Tom destroyed by Phoenix Hawk and Arrow IV Artillery splash damage
8. Raven destroyed by Schrek #2 and Infantry / Manticore destroyed by Quickdraw
9. SRM Infantry annihilated by Quickdraw, Schrek #1 destroyed by Clint, and Marauder fell by combined attack from Trebuchet and Vindicator
Probably still three turns left to finish up and I have not used Aerospace support yet for MAC as the scenario seems pretty even. Artillery is gone for both sides as the Long Tom has been destroyed (big for MAC as fleeing elements can't be picked off at extreme range) and the Raven is no more.
With three Mechs down (both Jenners and Raven) and the Quickdraw immobile (missing leg) we already know that only 8 MAC Mechs can escape. The armless Blackjack is engaged in a heroic rearguard action which it seems unlikely to get out of but I would have said the same of the battered Phoenix Hawk a turn ago. The destruction of Schrek #1 however, the trackless Behemoth, and the fallen Marauder make it possible that the daring Hawk which destroyed the Long Tom can escape now. The Crab was neutered by long range fire recently and is pretty badly damaged but could possible make an edge run.
The Javelin has made it to boards edge and can escape this turn if so desired. The Dervish and Clint are working well as a duo skirting the southern edge wrecking as they go. Same for Trebuchet and Vindicator on the northern edge. That lance could break and run without any chance of getting caught now or stay to provide long range cover fire for the Crab and Phoenix Hawk but I don't think the Blackjack is making it.
Stay tuned for the results!
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but I don't think the Blackjack is making it.
Stay tuned for the results!
Which would make 7 survivors?
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Yes it would have been 7 survivors predicted as of that earlier review but day 3 is in the book now and the battle is over. A comprehensive review is in the works.
A comment on infantry- don't get caught in the open! YIKES!!
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Well folks day 3 of the opening battle is in the books and matters have been concluded.
A total of 5 MAC Mechs (Javelin, Dervish, Trebuchet, Clint, Vindicator) escaped yesterday as the Militia scored a narrow win in this scenario
MAC Survivor Assessment
Dervish had armor damage
Clint no right leg armor
Trebuchet armor damage
Vindicator has heavy armor damage and some internal damage
Javelin has little armor remaining, heavy internal damage, and critical hits
All five Mechwarriors who were able to withdraw with their Mechs intact were unhurt. Three who ejected during the battle were WIA and captured by the Militia or locals. Three others managed to punch out and successfully eluded all pursuers to rejoin MAC after this battle (2 of those 3 were WIA). One Mechwarrior was killed in action as the head of her Jenner was obliterated early in the conflict.
Militia Status
While the Militia lost no Mechs during the engagement it paid a heavy price for its victory. 72 Infantry were killed in action as were 14 Vehicle Crewmen and 4 Artillerists. Make do repairs on the Mechs got them moving as did a Manticore disabled during the battle. The remaining Vehicle Lance (Ontos, Schrek, Manticore, SRM Carrier) will join two platoons of Rifle Infantry (1st Platoon was reconstituted with demobilized Vehicle crew and other recruits lowering their experience to green).
Salvage
Only the Crab and Jenner were salvageable after the battle but the Jenner was the only thing that the Militia managed to get away with. Thinking it will be back in another scenario as a key player.
Aftermath
While this opening planet-side victory was widely heralded by pro-Marik forces it's significance was relatively minor in the scheme of things. MAC aerospace forces responded by leveling the suspected redoubt soon after the conclusion of the battle but the Militia did manage to get away. Closing in on the planetary capital was far more important to them then hunting down these bandits which could be done at a time of their choosing.
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Our gaming season is coming up folks and I wanted to get your input on this scenario next up for our group.
4. Entering the Capital – leading to the city MAC must overcome the outer defense ring
This one sort of reminds me of the Battle of Tamar during the Clan War. Not so much a walled city but a defensive ring built by the FWLM after the Reconquista of Andurien in the 3040s for border defense. Essentially the area around the capital is fortified discouraging raiders from trying to assault it. Capellans or bandits would have to settle for secondary targets outside the main population center of the planet while a majority of the garrison can sit back and wait for reinforcements if a planetary assault is begun. Designed to hold out against a seige for a week possibly month these fortifications would consist of hardened turrets (suggestions welcome) and obstacles (wall possible, trenches or strongpoints, plus natural barriers).
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these fortifications would consist of hardened turrets (suggestions welcome) and obstacles (wall possible, trenches or strongpoints, plus natural barriers).
https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Castle_Brian_Gun_Emplacement
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That is a good point Ice, what is too high tech for this 'Maginot Line'? The Castle Brian would likely be too high tech for these defensive earthworks. I think effective level 1 tech could be the rule like LRM batteries, AC/10s, and Large Lasers might be the best available ranged option for gun emplacements. Shorter ranged anti-infantry weapons (machine guns, flamers, SRMs) would likely support these anti-Mech guns.
With Big MAC leading the way for Isis in this scenario we could also look at their scenario book for similarities.
https://www.sarna.net/wiki/McCarron%27s_Armored_Cavalry_(scenario_pack)
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Maginot Line might not be the best comparison as this one sounds more like a true castle.
I do agree with your choices of weapons with perhaps some AC/20 + SRM turrets hidden to deal with those trying to sneak in.
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With Big MAC leading the way for Isis in this scenario we could also look at their scenario book for similarities.
Marcus Barton all the way in!!!
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Maginot Line might not be the best comparison as this one sounds more like a true castle.
Really? When I think of a Star League Castle I am thinking of NORAD or Cheyenne Mountain rather than a defensive line like the Maginot Line here or like Tamar City during the Clan invasion. I think a Castle is beyond what the FWL could do here in ten years since the Andurien War even though defenses may have existed before this. Perhaps it is just two different visions.
I could certainly see a Heavy Turret (AC/20) or two being present to deal big damage. I was also thinking of massed AC/5 batteries as they have good reach and deal solid damage. AC/2s are too light for anti-Mech defenses but would make good anti-aircraft fire.
This brings up a good topic though which is counter battery fire. I am sure MAC has artillery just ready to open up on fixed positions not to mention aerospace support which I will have to review.
Marcus Barton in his Devastator will likely be leading the way in this assault.